Join us for a virtual premiere of the new documentary Starting At Zero, accompanied by brief panel discussions on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on early childhood education in America, and the critical role of high-quality early learning for our nation’s recovery and ensuring a brighter, more equitable tomorrow for all children and families.
The Saul Zaentz Charitable Foundation, The Hunt Institute, and the Ounce of Prevention cordially invite you to attend a special Virtual Premiere of our documentary, Starting at Zero: Reimagining Education in America.
Produced by the Saul Zaentz Charitable Foundation and Firestarter Interactive, and directed by Willa Kammerer, Starting at Zero explores the power of investing in high-quality early childhood education so that all children and families have the opportunity to attain the American Dream. Â
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The film screening will be accompanied by brief panel discussions with political leaders and early childhood experts on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on early childhood education in America, and the critical role of high-quality early learning for our nation’s recovery and ensuring a brighter, more equitable tomorrow for all children and families.Â
Starting at Zero explores the power of investing in high-quality early childhood education so that all children and families have the opportunity to attain the American Dream.
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The film brings together the voices of policymakers, educators, academics, business leaders, pediatricians, parents, and children. It features five current and past governors who are champions of early childhood education: Governors Steve Bullock of Montana, Kay Ivey of Alabama, and Ralph Northam of Virginia, as well as former Governors Jim Hunt of North Carolina, and Phil Bryant of Mississippi.
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Starting at Zero examines the latest developmental brain science to demonstrate how essential the earliest years of learning are to maximize human potential. Key features of high-quality early childhood learning environments and experiences are outlined and then brought to life as the film delves into the evolution of Alabama’s #1 nationally ranked state Pre-K program.Â
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Starting at Zero culminates with a call to governors across America for collective action: to set our nation on the path to future success through significant investments in high-quality early childhood education, both to support today’s workforce, and to build the workforce of tomorrow. At the heart of the film is the affirmation that if children are given the opportunity to thrive in settings with caring, responsive adults, the returns to our society will be deep and long-lasting.Â
Where do I go to watch the screening?
One day before the event we will provide you with additional information and instructions for how to join this virtual event and film screening. We’ll also share technical tips to ensure the best viewing experience possible.
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Where can I go to learn more about the film?
Please visit www.StartingatZeroFilm.com to learn more about the film and filmmakers, connect with us on social media, access press resources, schedule a screening, and much more.
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What is the schedule for the virtual event?
The Virtual Premiere will kick off with an introduction and brief panel discussion featuring our Expert Panelists on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on early childhood education in America. This will lead into screening of the full 63 minute film, Starting at Zero. Our panelists will return to reflect on the critical role of high-quality early learning for our nation’s recovery and ensuring a brighter, more equitable tomorrow for all children and families. The event will conclude with closing remarks and information on how to stay connected.
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How long is the film?Â
The film is approximately 60 minutes long.
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Is this screening free?
This virtual screening is free and open to the public. We welcome all interested viewers. Please feel free to share this link!  Â
Do you have other early learning resources?
Please visit www.saulzaentzcharitablefoundation.org and www.zaentz.gse.harvard.edu to learn more about the foundation and the work of the Saul Zaentz Early Education Initiative.
Please visit children.alabama.gov/documentary-starting-at-zero-resources to access the Alabama program resources mentioned in the film.
 Who produced the film?Â
Starting at Zero was produced by the Saul Zaentz Charitable Foundation and Firestarter Interactive. The film was directed by Willa Kammerer.
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How can I contact the producers of the film?
We welcome your inquiries. Please email us at info@startingatzerofilm.com.
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Do you have any other films about early childhood education?Â
Starting at Zero is the second in our series of documentaries on early learning.
The first, Tomorrow’s Hope: The Promise of Early Childhood Education was virtually exhibited to a private audience by the Ounce of Prevention on April 27th, 2020.
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Learn more at www.TomorrowsHopeFilm.com. Hosted screenings are available for online viewing at no charge to the viewer.Â
Press Inquiries Info:Â
Falco Ink 212-445-7100
